At an investment of approximately US$8M, Vasterbergslagens Kraft AB plans to completely refurbish the Ludvika hydroelectric project in Sweden.
The project involves installation of new machinery, reinforcement of the headrace tunnel, a new penstock, control, electrical and cooling equipment as well as new gates. Contract award for the machinery work is expected in January 2006, with the civil contract to follow in June 2006. Other contracts will be awarded as the project moves on.
The modernised station – originally built in 1901 – is scheduled to be in operation by June 2007. Annual production will increase to 13GWh from 10GWh at 3.7MW. Reservoir levels and discharge will remain the same as stipulated by the old permit.
Vasterbergslagens Kraft has also announced that Lernbo hydro plant, located 11km downstream and built in 1898, is scheduled to be refurbished within five years. Present production is 23GWH, and this is expected to increase to 29GWh at 7.3MW.